Blue skies and perfect temperatures helped bring over 125 registered
participants to the Great Greenbrier River Race in Anthony on
Saturday, April 24th. The race was a triathlon format that tested the
running, paddling, and biking skills of teams as well as individual
competitors through the beautiful landscape of Greenbrier County.

Four legs are faster than two...

The starting leg was a 3 mile run out and back along a dirt road that
brought the pack to their water craft of choice, which was waiting for
them on the banks of the Greenbrier River. Team Wood, Water, and
Wheels(17:38) was the first to reach their boats, with team
Fords Fun(17:59) right behind. Jeb Tilly(19:01) was the
first single-male to his kayak, and Camille Preston(21:38) led
the single-female class to the water. A quick transition was the goal
here, but not the most important aspect of the paddling leg. That's because
there was 9 miles of moderately moving water to be covered before the
final biking leg could be started.

Wait a minute, do we have a leak?

As soon as the paddlers got out of the water, it was time to get on
the bikes with the hope that they saved enough energy for the 15 mile
ride. Team Fitness Forum Four(1:14:43) had the fastest water
time, and Teague Swaim(1:17:23) was the fastest single-male.
Casey Gioeli(1:22:43) kept a great pace to be the fastest woman
in a boat this day. Team competitors were definitely feeling a little
stronger at this point, with fresh bodies waiting near their bikes,
but the individual racers wasted no time in getting to dry land and on
their saddle.

The finish line often brings happiness

Wood, Water, and Wheels(40:07) had the fastest bike time, but
single-female racer Lisa Lucci(41:56) was very impressive on her
bike, easily finishing ahead of her closest single-male racer
Robert Reid(46:42). The fastest team on the course this day
was Fitness Forum Four(2:18:07), with Wood, Water, and Wheels(2:19:08)
not very far behind. Robert Reid(2:31:29) used his strong biking to win
the single-male division, with Jim Weaver(2:31:43) and Teague
Swaim(2:32:15) less than a minute behind. Lisa Lucci(2:46:34) took top
honors for the single-female class, with Casey Gioeli(2:48:58) and
Camille Preston(2:49:43) right behind.

The finish line was surrounded by spectators, and cheering fans, and
it was obvious that everyone was having a great time. As if this
wasn't enough, everyone gathered afterwards for an award ceremony and
a great pasta meal. Thanks and appreciation to Anne Farr for
putting on a great race, and to Christy for giving us the
results. We'll see you there next year.